Unusual role: Shubman Gill playing second fiddle
In a surprising turn of events during the penultimate day of the third Test, Gill took on an uncharacteristic role of playing second fiddle to nightwatchman Kuldeep Yadav, who was striking the ball well. Resuming his innings from an overnight score of 65, Gill’s focus was on ensuring India didn’t lose early wickets as he formed a budding partnership with Kuldeep.
Miscommunication between Gill and Kuldeep Yadav
Nevertheless, in a pivotal moment, a miscommunication between Kuldeep and Gill led to the latter’s heartbreaking dismissal just nine runs short of a well-deserved century. On the final ball of the 64th over, Kuldeep, attempting to take on Tom Hartley‘s delivery, could only manage to send the ball towards the mid-on region. Already far down the pitch, Kuldeep took a couple more steps, inadvertently encouraging Gill to go for the risky single.
Ben Stokes’ precision
England skipper Ben Stokes, quick to collect the ball, unleashed a precise throw towards the non-striker’s end. Despite Gill’s valiant effort with a full-length dive, the untimely realization of the mishap and execution of the turn proved futile as wicketkeeper Hartley swiftly whipped off the bails, leaving Gill distraught and falling short of his well-deserved century.
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Fans disbelief: Social media eruption
Gill’s unexpected run-out left fans in disbelief, with many taking to social media to express their frustration. Interestingly, some fans couldn’t help but roast Kuldeep for unintentionally contributing to the dismissal of Gill, who seemed poised for a remarkable innings
Here’s how Twitter reacted:
Absolute heartbreak for Shubman Gill.Gill was playing so well,he deserves to get the.
Kuldeep Yadav should have gone for it and sacrificed his wicket.He came as a nighwatch man and his job is to prevent the main batsman not to run out of them.Gill left the ground with a heavy… pic.twitter.com/v2aZwozx1r
— Sujeet Suman (@sujeetsuman1991) February 18, 2024
Don't think Kuldeep Yadav would have to put an Instagram story for the run-out of Gill
— Div(@div_yumm) February 18, 2024
Kuldeep Yadav got out after facing exactly 91 deliveries. It's his way of sympathizing with his teammate.
— Silly Point (@FarziCricketer) February 18, 2024
Kuldeep Yadav took the revenge of Rohit Sharma?pic.twitter.com/2RCvzDjhze
—(@ItsHitmanERA) February 18, 2024
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